Portuguese Laurel Hedge (Prunus lusitanica)

Portuguese Laurel Plants Description

Portuguese Laurel is a versatile evergreen hedge with glossy, deep-green foliage and a naturally upright habit. The young stems are green before developing their characteristic reddish-purple colouring as they mature, adding contrast to the foliage.

Small, fragrant white flowers appear in early summer, followed by fruits that develop a darker colour as they mature. Alongside its year-round foliage, these seasonal features give Portuguese Laurel added interest while it is being used as a boundary or screening plant.

Prunus lusitanica is adaptable to different garden conditions and can be planted in full sun or partial shade. It can grow in a range of soils, including chalk, clay, loam and sandy soils, with moist but well-drained conditions preferred.

As a hedging plant, Portuguese Laurel can be clipped to maintain a defined shape and suitable height. Its evergreen foliage makes it particularly useful where year-round screening and structure are required.

Portuguese Laurel is available in a range of sizes and growing formats, including pot-grown, root-ball and instant hedging options.

Planting densities vary according to the size and format selected, so the product information should be used when calculating the number of plants required for your hedge.

Pruning Advice

Portuguese Laurel responds well to regular pruning and can be maintained at the height and shape required for your hedge.

Pruning in late spring or early summer helps keep established hedges neat and well defined.

Regular trimming can help maintain a dense, even appearance while keeping the hedge within its desired height.

Further Information

Our Portuguese Laurel range includes pot-grown plants, root-ball plants and instant hedging in a variety of sizes. The product listings show the recommended planting density for each option, helping you work out how many plants are needed for your hedge.

Smaller plants are available at higher planting densities, while larger plants can require fewer plants per metre. Instant hedging is supplied in established 1m troughs and is available in different heights for a more immediate hedging effect.

When planting Portuguese Laurel, choose a position in full sun or partial shade with suitable, well-drained soil. Water newly planted hedging regularly while it establishes, particularly during periods of dry weather.

Plant Safety: The leaves of Portuguese Laurel are harmful if eaten. The fruits should also not be consumed if they are bitter.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly does Portuguese Laurel grow?

Portuguese Laurel has an average growth rate of around 30–50cm per year, depending on growing conditions and establishment.

What conditions are best for Portuguese Laurel?

Portuguese Laurel grows well in full sun or partial shade and can adapt to chalk, clay, loam and sandy soils. It prefers soil that is moist but well drained.

How tall can a Portuguese Laurel hedge be?

Portuguese Laurel can be maintained at around 1–5m as a hedge with regular pruning. If left to grow naturally, the plant can become much taller.

When should Portuguese Laurel be pruned?

Portuguese Laurel hedges can be pruned in late spring or early summer to maintain their shape, height and overall appearance.

How many Portuguese Laurel plants do I need for a hedge?

The recommended planting density depends on the size and growing format selected. Our Portuguese Laurel range includes pot-grown, root-ball and instant hedging options, with the recommended number of plants per metre shown against each product.

Delivery & Returns

We offer free delivery within 50 miles of our nursery, making it easy to have your Portuguese Laurel hedge plants delivered directly to your property within our local delivery area.

Delivery outside the 50-mile area may be available depending on your location and order. If you are unsure whether your address falls within the 50-mile area, please contact us before ordering.

All plants are carefully prepared for delivery and are covered by our 12-month plant guarantee, subject to the applicable terms and conditions.